Southend Airport boss says expansion will boost economy
11.01.10
The success of Blackpool and Southampton airports is proof that a £30m expansion of Southend will bring a huge boost to the town’s economy, its boss told the Southend Standard. Managing director Alastair Welch spoke just over a week before Southend councillors consider controversial plans to extend the airport’s runway allowing it to become a gateway to European destinations.
Mr Welch told the newspaper that the benefits from expansion of Southampton and Blackpool airports proves an expanded airport would bring growth to the town, creating new jobs and supporting existing businesses. He said: While the vast majority of people recognise the benefits that a thriving local airport can bring, we fully appreciate that some people have concerns and examples of what has happened at local airports in Blackpool and Southampton – two other seaside towns whose airports have developed in recent years – demonstrate the positive benefits which local airports bring.’
The owner of the airport, the Stobart group, wants to extend the runway, add more flights with bigger planes to carry two million passengers a year. Building work has started on a new rail station serving the airport on the Liverpool Street line, which is due to open in March. A new terminal building is also planned as part of the expansion.
Southend Council, which considers the expansion plan on January 20, has agreed restrictions on noise and night flights from Southend Airport if the proposals are agreed. The current lease allows up to 900 night flights a month, but under the agreement, the limit will be 120. Night flights are currently classed as between midnight and 06:00, but this will be extended from 23:00 to 06:30.
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